Parakeet (communication system) explained

Parakeet is an Australian Army mobile battlefield communication system, developed by AWA Defence Industries^[1] . Parakeet utilizes a satellite radio system^[2], which supports remotely deployed units, allowing communication for land forces.

Development

It was first introduced into service in the mid-1990s through project JP65. Parakeet was considered (at the time) advanced military communications. This included secure voice and data trunking services.

Project JP2072 was raised in 2017^[3], to upgrade its sub-systems. As described in the project summary, Parakeet was developed as a Battlespace Communications System Land (BCS-L), aiming to replace older, less effective Battlefield Telecommunications Network (BTN)^[4] . It was operated by Royal Australian Corps of Signals (RASIGS^[5]) personnel.

Notes and References

1. Web site: Project Parakeet 4.3 Secure & Tactical Satellite Earth Station developed for the Australian Army .
2. Web site: December 1, 2010 . Project Review: A stroll down Army's information highway ADM Dec 2010/Jan 2011 .
3. Web site: Durrant . Patrick . November 1, 2017 . Rollout for 2B as JP2072 gathers pace .
4. Web site: Project Data Summary Sheet .
5. Web site: From Wagtail, Raven, Pintail to Project Currawong Battlespace Communications System… Boeing Defence Australia’s Project Currawong .